Challenging Perceptions

Women have played a foundational role on farms for hundreds of years and yet farming continues to be viewed as a male dominated profession. Stefanie and Cassandra are grain farmers from southwestern Manitoba who want to change that perception. In 2018 they started an Instagram page where they showcase day-to-day life on the farm with the goal of breaking down barriers and challenging the image of who a farmer is. The Tulepps don’t fit any of the farmer stereotypes, and yet they are combine operators, ground crew for their family’s aerial application business, grain marketers and the primary decision makers on their farm. They are real farmers, but they are also jewelry designers, craftspeople, fashion models, water sports enthusiasts, animal lovers, and influencers. Proving that no one can be defined by just one title.

Social media has opened a window into the lives of farmers that has never existed before. On any given day you can check in with The Tulepps, and many others in the agricultural community, as they post about what they are doing and why they are doing it, with full transparency. Stefanie and Cassandra explain why science and innovation play an important role in reducing food waste, and growing food more efficiently. They encourage consumers to seek out reputable sources of science-based information about food and farming practices.

“A tulip doesn’t strive to impress anyone. It doesn’t struggle to be different than a rose. It doesn’t have to. It is different and there is room in the garden for every flower.” Marianne Williamson